Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi amongst others attended the press conference in Abuja
Opposition political parties have rejected the 2026 Electoral Act passed by the National Assembly and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, describing it as a major setback to Nigeria’s democratic future.
The parties made their position known at a press briefing themed: “ _Urgent Call to Save Nigeria’s Democracy,”_ held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
Reading a communiqué on behalf of the coalition, the Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, Ahmed Ajuji, declared:
“We demand that the National Assembly immediately commence a fresh amendment to the Electoral Act 2026, to remove all obnoxious provisions and ensure that the Act reflects only the will and aspiration of Nigerians for free, fair, transparent and credible electoral process in our country.
“Nothing short of this will be acceptable to Nigerians.”
The briefing attracted prominent opposition figures, including former Senate President David Mark, former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi, all associated with the African Democratic Congress. Also present were key NNPP members, including Buba Galadima.
The coalition argued that the amended law contains “anti-democratic” clauses, particularly the revision of Section 60(3), which allows manual transmission of results in cases of communication failure.
According to the opposition, this weakens compulsory electronic transmission and opens room for manipulation, despite assurances from the Independent National Electoral Commission that Nigeria’s infrastructure can support nationwide digital transmission.
They also faulted the amendment to Section 84, which limits parties to direct primaries and consensus, describing it as unconstitutional interference in internal party affairs.
Citing alleged irregularities in the recent Federal Capital Territory local government elections, the opposition described the polls as a “complete fraud” and warned that public confidence in the 2027 elections is rapidly eroding.
They also condemned reported attacks on ADC leaders in Edo State, calling them a threat to political tolerance. In their joint statement, the parties vowed to pursue “every constitutional means” to challenge the law, insisting, “We will not be intimidated,” as they urged civil society groups and Nigerians to rally in defence of democracy.
